James Earl Melvin

     James Earl Melvin, of Harrington, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, March 7, 2023, in Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus. He was 89.

     Jim was born December 14, 1933 in Houston, Delaware to the late, Frank & Evelyn(Sherwood) Melvin. He served proudly in the United States Air Force for over 15 years.

    After completing his tour of duty, he continued with a civic minded career, serving as Police Chief for the Town of Frederica; and the State of Delaware with the Department of Corrections for many years before retiring.

     He was a member of the American Legion of Harrington; the Milford I.O.F.; and was very supportive of the Felton Fire Company where several of his family are members. In his free time he enjoyed traveling, was an avid wood worker; and loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

    In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a son, Donald Deputy; a grandson, Matthew Mutter; sister, Doris Dolby; and 2 brothers, Frank & Ronald Melvin.

     James is survived by his wife of 58 years, Janet(Alexander) Melvin; 5 children, Cyndi Freeman(Chris), of Manning, S.C.; Wayne Rawding(Denise), of Felton; Virginia Deputy, of Harrington; Daughter-in-law, Robin Deputy, of Felton; Carl Deputy(Patty), of Felton;  and Jane Mutter(David), of Houston; a brother, Ernest W. Melvin, of Dover; 11 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, extended family and friends.

     Funeral Services will be held 12 noon, Tuesday, March 14, 2023 in Pippin Funeral Home, Inc. 119 West Camden-Wyoming Ave., Wyoming, DE; where family and friends may view 2 hours before. Burial with Full Military Honors will follow in the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Millsboro, DE. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Felton Fire Company, 9 East Main St., Felton, DE 19943. Condolences may be sent via: www.pippinfuneralhome.com.

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